Photo Gallery

2012- Thyranoixia of St. John the Baptist

Thyranoixia: (Greek "Θυρανοίξια" literally "opening of the doors") is the dedication of a church upon its completion. The bishop performs the hagiasmos (ἁγιασμός) ceremony and says prayers in reference to the new building. It is followed by the consecration of the church [also called the encainia (εγκαίνια)]. The consecration of a church is a complex service that is filled with profound symbolisms. Many biblical elements are taken from the Old Testament: the Consecration of the Tabernacle (Exodus 40) and of the Temple of Solomon (1 Kings 8; 2 Chronicles 5-7).